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Yokohama is Japan’s second-largest city and the capital of the Kanagawa Prefecture. The city houses the country’s largest Chinatown, as well as many other tourist attractions, including traditional botanical gardens, temples and a modern city center. Visitors to the city will find that traveling between the most popular tourist attractions is surprisingly easy, thanks to the city's excellent public transportation and freeway systems.

Train

Located only 30 minutes away from Tokyo, most visitors to the city arrive via train from the larger city. Four railway companies serve the city: Japan Railways, Tokyu Railways, Keikyu Railways and Sagami Railways. There are two major stations in the city limits. Yokohama Station is located in the city center, and it's serviced by all four railway companies and the subway line. The other major station, Shin-Yokohama Station, is located outside the city center; it's serviced by the shinkansen bullet trains.

Subway

There are two municipal subway lines in the city, the Blue Line and the Green Line. The Blue Line runs from Shonandai Station to Azamino Station; the Green Line runs from Nakayama Station to Hiyoshi Station.

Bus

There are a few different busses in the city, but the one that is most often used is the Akaikutsu Loop Bus, which travels from the Sakuragicho Station and stops by the majority of tourist attractions in the area, including Chinatown and Minato Mirai. A Suica and Pasmo prepaid card can be used on the subways, buses and trains within the city.

Seabass

Because Yokohama is a major seaport of Japan, the majority of popular tourist attractions lie within walking distance of the ports. To travel from one port to another, visitors can board the Seabass and take a trip from Yokohama Bay Quarter, which is located very close to the Yokohama Station, to either Minato Mirai or Yamashita Park.

Taxi

Taxi services in the city are expensive; travelers will need to pay the fixed-rate fair, plus an additional surcharge for any necessary highway tolls. All taxis charge the same rates; if you call a cab, the quoted price will be the same no matter what company or driver you choose. It's also worth noting that the taxis in Yokohama all feature automatic doors, so you should not attempt to open the doors yourself.

Car Rental

While the center of Yokohama is easy to explore without using a car, those who wish to explore the countryside or travel to Tokyo will often find that renting a car can be a simple and freeing alternative to public transportation. The roadsigns in the area are very clear, making travel easy, even for international visitors, but extra care should still be applied whenever traveling in another country. Cars are available for rent at any international airport. In order to rent a car in Japan, you must have an international driver's license and insurance. International drivers licenses and permits must be obtained in your home country before your trip; if you are considering renting a car, plan accordingly.